WEST HOLLYWOOD—In one form or another everyone has been affected by breast cancer, whether it is personally diagnosed, surviving the cancer, knowing a friend diagnosed, or losing someone. A friend of mine was diagnosed with breast cancer, and I could clearly see the toll it took on her.

The treatments wiped her out making her exhausted and she felt very self-conscious of her hair loss. We all stood by her, encouraging her to continue radiation, making her meals when she was too tired to do so herself, and whenever she participated in “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer” we were sure to support her.

We now have another opportunity to help and encourage those who are battling breast cancer at the “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer” in the city of West Hollywood on August 25. Registration starts at 9:30 a.m. at Interior Illusions on 7335 Santa Monica Boulevard. Starting time is 10:30 a.m. Registration is free.

The American Cancer Society funds raising awareness of breast cancer to the community through events such as this, funds finding cures, preventing the disease, and supporting survivors. As of 1993, they have raised $400 million to help provide screening guidelines, physician education, create public awareness, finding cures, transportation to and from treatments, wigs, as well as emotional and online support. In 2011, over $60 million was raised, so let’s continue to assist those we love and participate in “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer!”

All ages are welcome to attend. Local residents and business owners will also contribute to this event. This is the first time it will be held in West Hollywood. Online services make it possible to donate to a walker, a team, or the event if residents are unable to attend on makingstrides.acsevents.org or by calling (310) 348-0357. Breast cancer incidences and deaths are on the decline, let’s push in this direction even further!